Do I miss the heady days of summer? Eh, winter makes a compelling argument for itself as I watch the snow fall outside the window amid the warmth of one of my favourite cafes. Amid mouthfuls of aforementioned carrot cake is, I have to admit there is a special type of magic to this time of year.
For the uninitiated, Harvest Cafe is located on 10th and is a locally owned and operated gem with an appealing range of light to hearty casual fare. The tea menu is (and I say this as a card-carrying British gal) surprisingly robust, with over a dozen loose-leaf teas hand blended from Jolene’s Tea House in Banff available to enjoy at the warmth of your table, or to go as fragrant hand warmers during the cold days ahead. The “coffees and such” menu (mountain blends roasted in Canmore) will also please both fans of a simple and a fancy cup of Joe. Want to make your coffee Irish? No problem; Harvest Cafe has a liquor license and a few “hard” offerings for those who want a little extra warmth in their mug. We feel you!
A vast selection of wraps, paninis and sandwiches are available and can be served with gluten-free alternatives. The sunrise grilled wrap is 100% the breakfast bite for me, colourfully bursting with spinach, avocado potato, red pepper, mozzarella, house-made salsa and scrambled eggs. Although, I must say, I was tempted by a passing glance of the potato-crusted frittata. Perhaps it goes without saying that we’re proud supporters of all good panini purveyors but, nonetheless, I am glad to report the offerings at Harvest Cafe are packed with tasty fillings that will have you licking your lips in celebration of a fine lunch!
My most recent visit happened to fall on a particularly chilly afternoon, so I found myself drawn in by a beany bowl of vegetarian chili that was so ample I had to take some home with me! Served aside a helping of the colourful “Hidden Treasure” salad, made up of spinach, beet, yam and goat cheese, with walnuts and a crisp apple cider vinegar dressing, I felt the picture of seasonal health and vitality, saving room for decadent decision making when it came to the likes of a sweet treat.
Cinnamon buns, brownies, cookies, and *that* carrot cake; Harvest Cafe’s fresh baked goods will have you drooling on sight, but just wait until you get into a bite. Glory be the cream cheese frosting, and praise all ye chocolate chunks out there; I’m in heaven! Sweet tooths like me will be delighted, as will those who are gifted a take-out treat by all kind friends and co-workers out and about on the day’s coffee run. ‘Tis the season of giving, afterall.
Visit harvestcafe.ca for further information.
